Stigma

People with Social Phobia face very large barriers to getting the treatment they need — larger than those faced by others with mental illnesses. Many of the barriers are the same as with other mental illnesses, but some are unique to Social Phobia. Mark Olfson of Columbia University says: Socially anxious people are often ashamed [...]

The stigma of mental illness continues to a shocking degree throughout the world. A new study has detailed the stigma of mental illness in Canada. Its results are unsettling, to say the least. Here are some of the findings: 46% believe that a diagnosis of mental illness is merely an “excuse for poor behavior and [...]

It’s been a great week here at Anxiety Central! There have been two (long-promised) firsts: a book review and the answer to a reader question. And two posts are on their way to being among the most popular ever: Can Anxiety Disorders Make You Sick? Normal Worry vs Generalized Anxiety Disorder Today’s Saturday treats include [...]

You may know someone who is guilty of it and not even aware of it. It is one of the many ways that the discounting, stereotyping and stigma of mental disorders is perpetuated. It is discriminatory, in the same way that sexism and racism are. It is one of the ways the media distorts the [...]

Television programs like “In Treatment,” “Frasier,” and “The Sopranos” may discourage people from seeking psychological treatment, a new study shows. Frasier Crane and his brother, Niles both practiced psychiatry on their popular NBC sitcom “Frasier.” Mob boss Tony Soprano had his therapist on HBO’s hit show “The Sopranos.” And HBO has even made therapy the [...]